Homeowners often worry about whether their insurance covers natural disasters. The unexpected can happen at any time, and the impact of severe weather can be devastating. That’s why it’s essential to understand what your home insurance policy covers and where additional protection may be needed. In this blog, we’ll explore how standard home insurance policies handle various natural disasters and whether you should consider extra coverage to ensure your home and belongings are fully protected.

The Basics of Home Insurance Coverage

What Does Home Insurance Typically Cover?

Home insurance is designed to protect your home and personal belongings from a range of risks. Most standard policies cover a variety of perils, including:

Fire and Smoke Damage: Damage caused by fire or smoke is typically covered, allowing you to repair or rebuild your home.

Theft and Vandalism: If someone breaks into your home and steals your possessions, your policy can help reimburse you for those losses.

Wind and Hail Damage: Damage from windstorms or hail is usually covered under a standard policy, including damage to your roof, siding, and windows.

Liability Protection: Home insurance also provides liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property and decides to sue you.

However, when it comes to natural disasters, coverage can vary significantly based on the type of disaster and your specific policy. Let’s break down some of the most common natural disasters and how they are typically treated in home insurance policies.

Floods: Not So Easy to Cover

Understanding Flood Insurance

Floods can be incredibly destructive, and unfortunately, they are not covered by standard home insurance policies. This is a crucial point for homeowners to understand. If you live in a flood-prone area or near a body of water, it’s essential to consider obtaining separate flood insurance. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): The NFIP is a federal program that offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and businesses. If you live in a participating community, you can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP.

2. Coverage Limits: Flood insurance policies generally have specific coverage limits for both the structure and personal property. It’s important to review these limits to ensure they meet your needs.

3. Waiting Period: Most flood insurance policies have a waiting period of 30 days before coverage takes effect. Be sure to plan ahead and secure your policy well in advance of any potential flooding.

4. Understand Your Risk: Even if you don’t live in a high-risk flood zone, floods can occur anywhere. Consider your risk level and discuss flood insurance options with your insurance agent.

Earthquakes: A Different Kind of Risk

Earthquake Insurance Explained

Like floods, earthquake damage is typically not covered by standard home insurance policies. If you live in an area prone to seismic activity, you may want to consider purchasing earthquake insurance. Here’s what you should know:

1. Separate Policies: Earthquake insurance is usually sold as a separate policy or endorsement to your standard home insurance. Check with your insurer to see what options are available.

2. Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Earthquake insurance policies often come with higher deductibles than standard home insurance. It’s essential to review your policy terms and understand what is and isn’t covered.

3. Types of Coverage: Earthquake insurance typically covers damage to your home’s structure, personal belongings, and additional living expenses if you need to temporarily relocate due to damage.

4. Evaluate Your Risk: If you live in a seismic zone, consider the likelihood of an earthquake and the potential damage it could cause. Investing in earthquake insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

Hurricanes: Coverage Can Vary

Navigating Hurricane Coverage

Hurricanes can cause severe damage, so understanding how your home insurance policy handles hurricanes is vital. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Wind Damage Coverage: Most standard home insurance policies cover wind damage caused by hurricanes. This includes damage to your roof, siding, and windows. However, it’s important to review your policy for specific limits and exclusions.

2. Flooding from Hurricanes: While wind damage may be covered, flooding caused by a hurricane is not. If your home is at risk of flooding during a hurricane, you will need a separate flood insurance policy, as mentioned earlier.

3. Hurricane Deductibles: Some states with a high risk of hurricanes may have specific hurricane deductibles. These deductibles can be a percentage of your home’s insured value rather than a flat dollar amount. Be sure to understand how your deductible works in the event of a hurricane.

4. Prepare for the Worst: If you live in a hurricane-prone area, consider taking proactive steps to protect your home, such as reinforcing your roof, installing storm shutters, and securing loose outdoor items.

Tornadoes: What You Need to Know

Tornado Coverage Basics

Tornadoes can strike quickly and cause significant damage to homes. Fortunately, most standard home insurance policies cover tornado damage, but there are key considerations:

1. Wind Damage Coverage: Tornadoes are classified as windstorms, so damage from tornadoes is typically covered under most home insurance policies.

2. Debris Removal: Many policies also cover the cost of debris removal after a tornado, which can help you manage cleanup efforts.

3. Additional Living Expenses: If your home is severely damaged and you need to temporarily relocate, your policy may cover additional living expenses, such as hotel stays and food costs.

4. Review Your Policy: As with any natural disaster, it’s important to review your policy to understand your coverage limits and any exclusions that may apply.

Wildfires: Coverage Considerations

Wildfire Insurance Insights

In areas prone to wildfires, homeowners need to be aware of how their insurance policy handles fire damage. Here are some key points:

1. Fire Damage Coverage: Most standard home insurance policies cover fire damage, including damage caused by wildfires. However, the extent of coverage may vary based on your specific policy and location.

2. Risk Assessment: If you live in a high-risk wildfire area, your insurer may assess your property’s risk and adjust your premium accordingly. Homes in fire-prone areas may face higher premiums due to the increased risk.

3. Mitigation Measures: Taking steps to reduce wildfire risk—such as creating defensible space around your home, using fire-resistant materials, and maintaining a well-kept landscape—can help lower your insurance costs and improve your safety.

4. Review Your Policy: As with other natural disasters, be sure to review your policy to understand your coverage for fire damage and any specific exclusions or limitations.

Additional Coverage Options

Exploring Endorsements and Riders

If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, you may want to consider additional coverage options to enhance your protection. Here are some options to explore:

1. Endorsements: Many insurance companies offer endorsements that can be added to your policy to provide additional coverage for specific risks, such as earthquakes or floods.

2. Riders: Riders are similar to endorsements and can provide additional coverage for personal belongings or specific types of damage. For example, you might consider a rider for valuable items like jewelry or art that may not be fully covered under a standard policy.

3. Comprehensive Coverage: Some insurers offer comprehensive policies that provide broader coverage for natural disasters and other perils. Be sure to discuss your options with your insurance agent to find a policy that meets your needs.

4. Stay Informed: Regularly review your coverage and stay informed about changes in your area’s risk of natural disasters. This will help you make informed decisions about your insurance needs.

Preparing for Natural Disasters

Taking Action Before Disaster Strikes

Preparation is key when it comes to natural disasters. Here are some proactive steps you can take to protect your home and belongings:

1. Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a family emergency plan that outlines how to respond in the event of a natural disaster. Ensure everyone in your household knows what to do and where to go.

2. Inventory Your Belongings: Keep a detailed inventory of your home’s contents, including photos and receipts. This will help expedite the claims process if you need to file a claim for damaged or lost items.

3. Secure Important Documents: Store important documents, such as insurance policies, identification, and financial records, in a safe place. Consider keeping digital copies in a secure cloud storage service.

4. Stay Informed: Stay informed about weather forecasts and potential natural disasters in your area. Sign up for local alerts and warnings to stay updated on any imminent threats.

Understanding whether natural disasters are covered by your home insurance policy is crucial for protecting your property and peace of mind. While standard policies cover many perils, specific disasters like floods and earthquakes often require additional coverage. By familiarizing yourself with your policy, exploring endorsements, and taking proactive steps, you can ensure that you’re adequately protected against the unexpected.

Home insurance is more than just a policy—it’s a crucial safety net that ensures security and peace of mind during uncertain times. By understanding your coverage needs and staying informed about potential risks in your area, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your home and loved ones. Preparation is key, and having the right insurance in place can make all the difference when disaster strikes. Your home is your sanctuary—let us help you protect it against life’s unpredictable moments.

Floods are among the most common and destructive natural disasters, causing significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and communities. Whether caused by heavy rainfall, storm surges, or overflowing rivers, floods can pose serious risks to life and property. Proper preparedness may help mitigate these risks and ensure you and your family remain safe. In this guide, we’ll cover essential steps to take before, during, and after a flood to enhance your safety and reduce potential damage.

Before the Flood: Preparation is Key

1. Know Your Risk

Understanding your flood risk is the first step in flood preparedness. Check if your home is in a flood-prone area by consulting FEMA’s Flood Map Service or your local government’s floodplain maps. Knowing your risk level will help you determine the necessary precautions to take.

2. Purchase Flood Insurance

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Keep in mind that there is typically a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect, so don’t wait until a flood warning is issued.

3. Create a Family Emergency Plan

Having a well-prepared emergency plan may save lives. Your plan should include:

·         A communication strategy for family members

·         Evacuation routes and destinations

·         Emergency contacts, including local emergency management offices

·         A plan for pets and livestock

4. Assemble an Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies that can sustain your household for at least 72 hours. Include:

·         Non-perishable food and bottled water

·         Flashlights and extra batteries

·         First-aid kit

·         Medications and medical supplies

·         Important documents in a waterproof container

·         Cash, in case ATMs and card readers are unavailable

·         Extra clothing and blankets

5. Protect Your Property

Take proactive measures to minimize flood damage:

·         Elevate electrical appliances, utilities, and critical systems (such as HVAC and fuse boxes) above potential flood levels.

·         Install check valves in plumbing to prevent floodwater from backing up into your home.

·         Seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds.

·         Store valuable items and documents on upper floors or in waterproof containers.

6. Stay Informed

Sign up for emergency alerts and weather notifications from sources like the National Weather Service (NWS) and local government agencies. Understanding the difference between a flood watch (conditions are favorable for flooding) and a flood warning (flooding is imminent or occurring) can help you respond appropriately.

During the Flood: Staying Safe

1. Evacuate If Advised

If authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Delaying evacuation can put you and emergency responders at risk. Before leaving:

·         Turn off gas, electricity, and water to prevent fires and electrical hazards.

·         Unplug appliances to reduce the risk of electrocution.

·         Secure your home by locking doors and windows.

·         Follow designated evacuation routes and avoid shortcuts, which may be blocked by floodwaters.

2. Stay Indoors if Not Evacuating

If you are not in an evacuation zone and choose to stay home, take these precautions:

·         Move to higher ground or the highest level of your home.

·         Avoid basements or low-lying areas where floodwaters can rise quickly.

·         Keep emergency supplies within reach.

·         Listen to battery-powered weather radios or use mobile apps for real-time updates.

3. Avoid Floodwaters

Floodwaters can be extremely dangerous:

·         Do not walk or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and two feet of water can carry away most vehicles.

·         Floodwater may contain debris, chemicals, sewage, and hidden hazards like downed power lines.

·         If you are trapped in a flooding vehicle, exit through a window and get to higher ground.

After the Flood: Recovery and Cleanup

1. Ensure Safety Before Returning Home

Only return home when authorities declare it safe. Before entering:

·         Check for structural damage and potential collapse risks.

·         Look for gas leaks, electrical hazards, and water contamination.

·         Wear protective gear (rubber gloves, boots, and masks) when inspecting your property.

2. Document the Damage

Take detailed photos and videos of the damage before cleaning up. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and government assistance applications.

3. Contact Your Insurance Provider

If you have flood insurance, file a claim as soon as possible. Provide your insurance company with:

·         Photos and videos of damage

·         An inventory of lost or damaged items

·         Receipts for temporary repairs or alternative accommodations

4. Clean Up Safely

Floodwaters can leave behind contaminants and mold. Follow these steps:

·         Use a sump pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water.

·         Open doors and windows for ventilation.

·         Disinfect surfaces with bleach or other approved cleaning solutions.

·         Dispose of soaked carpets, mattresses, and insulation to prevent mold growth.

·         Be cautious of snakes, rodents, and insects that may have entered your home.

5. Seek Disaster Assistance

If you need financial assistance, check resources such as:

·         FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) – Offers disaster relief grants.

·         Red Cross and local charities – Provide shelter, food, and supplies.

·         Community and state programs – May offer additional aid for rebuilding efforts.

6. Plan for Future Floods

Flood preparedness should be an ongoing effort. Consider:

·         Elevating your home or retrofitting it with flood-resistant materials.

·         Investing in flood barriers, sandbags, or sump pumps.

·         Updating your emergency kit and reviewing your family’s evacuation plan regularly.

Floods can be unpredictable and devastating, but thorough preparation can significantly reduce their impact. By understanding your flood risk, creating an emergency plan, and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. During a flood, prioritizing safety by evacuating when necessary and avoiding floodwaters is crucial. After the flood, taking immediate action to document damage, clean up safely, and seek assistance can help with a smoother recovery process. By staying prepared and proactive, you may minimize losses and ensure your safety in the face of future flooding events.

Life is the most precious gift, and at JD Auvil Agency Insurance & Financial Services, we love insuring yours! This month, we’re sending heartfelt love and gratitude to each of our loyal clients. Thank you for welcoming us into your families and homes—it’s truly an honor to provide you with the protection and peace of mind you deserve, especially in uncertain times.

Coverage You Can Count On

We take pride in offering a variety of impactful services tailored to your needs. Here are just a few of the coverages we provide:

• Homeowners Insurance: Safeguard your home with customized plans that provide reliable protection when you need it most.
• Life Insurance: Ensure your loved ones’ future with comprehensive life coverage designed for your reassurance.
• Builders’ Risk: Protect your business or assets with tailored solutions that let you focus on growth and success.

Whether it’s protecting your home, your family, or your dreams, we are here to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

We’re Here for You

Got questions? We’d love to answer them. Have concerns? Let us address them. At JD Auvil Agency Insurance & Financial Services, insuring you isn’t just our job—it’s our passion.

Get to know us better and let us provide the protection you so deeply deserve. Visit us online, call, or stop by.
https://www.jdauvilinsuranceandfinancial.com/ | 757-238-9575 | 15064 Carrollton Blvd, Ste. N Carrollton, VA 23314 or 3101 American Legion Rd #14 Chesapeake, VA 23321

Thank you for trusting us with what matters most. We love serving you and look forward to continuing to support you!

In the chillier months, space heaters become a go-to solution for warming up specific areas in our homes. While these portable devices offer convenience and immediate heat, it's crucial to prioritize safety to avoid potential hazards. A cozy evening by the space heater can quickly turn into a safety concern if not used responsibly. From proper placement to regular maintenance, following these key practices will help you harness the warmth of a space heater while keeping potential risks at bay.

Placement: Place space heaters on a level, flat surface away from foot traffic. Keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, and furniture.

Ventilation: Ensure that the space heater has enough space around it to allow proper airflow, and never use it in enclosed spaces.

Power Source: Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet, avoiding the use of extension cords or power strips. Overloading electrical circuits can lead to fire hazards.

Supervision: Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep.

Maintenance: Regularly inspect their space heaters for any signs of damage or malfunction. Malfunctioning heaters should be repaired or replaced immediately.

Quality and Certification: Choose space heaters with safety certifications from recognized organizations. This ensures that the product has undergone rigorous testing for safety standards.

Automatic Shut-off: Space heaters equipped with automatic shut-off features provide an extra layer of protection. These can prevent overheating and reduce the risk of fires.

Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from space heaters. The exterior can become hot and pose a burn risk.

Read the Manual: Thoroughly read and understand the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines provided in the user manual.

Emergency Preparedness: Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Regularly test these devices and replace batteries as needed.

Prioritizing space heater safety is paramount to enjoying their warmth without compromise. By following these guidelines, you can create a cozy environment while minimizing the risk of potential hazards. Remember, responsible usage, regular maintenance, and awareness of safety features are key elements in ensuring that your space heater enhances comfort without sacrificing security. As the temperatures drop, let's embrace warmth with confidence, knowing that our safety practices make all the difference. Stay warm, stay safe!

On Thanksgiving Day, almost everyone with a dog or cat is faced with pets begging for what the two-legged family is eating. But can dogs have turkey? It depends.

“Around this time of year, I’m asked if turkey is bad for dogs and cats, and for the most part, turkey is safe for these pets,” says Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, Nationwide’s Chief Veterinary Officer. “The parts of the turkey that are not safe for pets are the fatty or boney ones: Don’t give your pets turkey skin, turkey gravy or turkey bones from the roasted bird. Those must be off-limits, unless you’re planning to clean up after a pet’s tummy ache, or in the worst case, making time for a Thanksgiving trip to the veterinary emergency clinic.”

Dr. McConnell says that the turkey meat is safe for dogs and cats, and light or dark meat are both fine – in moderation, of course.

Amazon Echo devices allow Alexa to make life easier by providing unlimited access to information. With Echo Auto, you can have Alexa in your car too, and Nationwide wants to help you get one for free!

Nationwide will give away one million Echo Auto devices to qualifying new and existing auto insurance policyholders in select states¹. The free Echo Auto promotion will be available beginning Sept. 25 while supplies last. Those interested in receiving one can visit nationwide.com/GetEcho or contact their local Nationwide insurance agent.

“Voice services like Alexa will continue to impact our lives. Nationwide wants to leverage this technology to meet our members’ needs in new and unique ways,” said Nationwide’s President, Emerging Businesses Group and Chief Marketing Officer Terrance Williams.

Nationwide will also be introducing three new features to its skill for Alexa:

• New Driver Checklist: Provides a safety checklist to help drivers learn safe driving habits;
• Nationwide’s Roadside Assistance: Nationwide members can call Nationwide Roadside Assistance for help;
• Road Conditions: Quickly check weather and road conditions before heading out.

Are you prepared for a hurricane? In an average season, about 20 storms occur. Of those storms, two are typically major hurricanes and another six vary in intensity, according to forecasters at Colorado State University.

The time to prepare for a hurricane is before it hits. By knowing what to do to prepare for a hurricane, you can concentrate on safeguarding your home and belongings as best as possible. To help, here are some hurricane preparedness tips to keep you safe.

DO: Create a hurricane kit

Create an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable foods, flashlights,
batteries, a battery-operated radio and first aid supplies.

Every home should have a hurricane kit with essentials needed to survive if you and your family are stranded in a storm. Here’s a look at some of the things your kit should have, as suggested by The Department of Homeland Security:

• Water: One gallon per person per day for three days
• Food: Three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Batteries
• Flashlight
• Battery-operated radio
• First aid kit

DO: Seal your home

Caulk windows and doorjambs, install impact-resistant windows and pre-install shutter hinges to install emergency shutters quickly.

Take the time to seal every point of your home. Seal entry points like vents or cable access points. Consider installing impact-resistant windows, and pre-install shutter hinges that let you mount shutters before you evacuate.

DO: Clear your gutters

Remove debris from gutters to allow proper drainage during a storm. Make sure they’re free of leaves, pinecones and trash so heavy rains can flow through them freely.

DO: Elevate your belongings

Get everything you can off the floor and to higher ground, like a second level or high shelves. Hurricanes often cause flooding or water damage. To prepare, try to move your belongings off the floor Even moving items up to closet shelves can keep your belongings out of water.

DON’T: Leave loose items outside

Make sure your patio furniture, grill, lawn mower, bikes and all other items that are stored outside are brought in.

Take some time to round up all of your outdoor items and move them inside. Anything that’s loose is easily picked up by high winds. Put these items inside your garage or basement before a storm hits.

DON’T: Ignore warnings

If authorities issue an evacuation warning, listen to it. Even the most well-built homes aren’t hurricane-proof. If a storm is strong enough, authorities will likely initiate a mandatory evacuation to keep residents safe. Ignoring an evacuation order puts you and your family in danger.

DON’T: Run generators inside your home

Portable generators give off carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can be deadly. Keep generators outside under a canopied structure.

Some homeowners buy portable generators to provide electricity if there’s an outage during a storm. If you have one, figure out where you’ll put it during the storm. Don’t keep it in your house or even in your garage with the door cracked. Put the generator at least five feet away from your home, on a dry surface and under a canopied roof. There are special generator shelters you can purchase for this purpose.

If you know what to do to prepare for a hurricane, you can take steps to safeguard your family and your home. Make hurricane preparedness a priority, and talk to JD Auvil Ageny at 757-238-9575 to make sure your coverage suits your needs.

Want to thank all of our outstanding, understanding and awesome clients for working with us while we shut the offices down a couple of days, so we could enjoy our family vacation! And a big shout out to Hollyn and Stephanie who held BOTH Carrollton and Chesapeake offices together, for a few days, while we went on our family vacation to Cancun, Mexico. Attached are a few pictures of our vacation for you to look at.  This was our 1st family vacation without our main leader, Jim Auvil.   We missed him dearly, and family vacations will never be the same.  We thought and talked about him often.  Although he is currently in heaven having a blast, we all could feel him watching over us!  He will forever be in our thoughts and hearts.  The good news is:  We will meet again!  Jim left this earth with an assurance that he is SAVED.  Therefore, rest assured, our family will be together again one day!   John 3:16:  " For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."   Thank you again our awesome clients and staff!!